I am mystified by William Kristol’s conclusion in “NY’s ’08 Hopes” (PostOpinion, Dec. 5).

Does he really think that electing a sanctimonious, condescending, liberal Massachusetts billionaire is something that New Yorkers, or anyone else, should hope for?

If we can’t do a better job of enlisting the best among us, the future looks grim.

Enough of these self-selected wannabes. Bring back the smoke-filled rooms!

Margaret Donovan, Manhattan